You don't need to be technologically gifted to create a better experience on your Android device.

How to Get the Most Out of Android

How to Get the Most Out of Android

The stock Android experience can be a bit plain at times, but it's a great digital canvas to build upon. Thankfully, Android lets users customize the look and feel of our devices just by installing a few third-party premium apps—no rooting required. Here, we'll upgrade your phone with launchers, dialers, messaging apps, and more. If you're willing to put in some time and a little bit of cash, you can make your smartphone even smarter.

Note: Most of these apps have free or trial versions, so poke around and see what’s the best fit.

Launchers

Launchers

Not happy with the look or feel of Android skins such as Touchwiz, Sense, or Blur? You can try something new by installing a home-screen replacement, like Nova Launcher, which comes in Free or Prime ($4) versions.

Nova, developed by TeslaCoil Software, comes with several cool features. Dive into the settings section and turn on swipe gestures (a Prime feature) or add infinite scroll to the desktop and the dock. Hide the dock based on a gesture and do the same for the notification bar. Our favorite trick is changing the grid, meaning you can add or remove columns and rows on the screen. Combine all this with Nova Actions used for quick toggles and shortcuts, then clean up clutter by hiding apps you rarely use.

Apex Launcher is a kindred spirit to Nova Launcher. Similar in features and speed, the choice may come done to which one works best on your device. Other options include GO Launcher EX and Smart Launcher, with each being more different in design than in function.

If you’re looking for a radical change to your phone’s look, try out Themer, an app that dresses up your smartphone with dozens of pre-loaded, artistically designed themes.